Acquired cutis laxa associated with heavy chain deposition disease

J Am Acad Dermatol. 2008 Nov;59(5 Suppl):S99-101. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2008.05.007.

Abstract

Acquired cutis laxa (generalized acquired elastolysis) is a condition of unknown etiology characterized by a degeneration of elastic fibers in the skin, resulting in laxity with reduced elastic recoil. We describe a patient with acquired cutis laxa associated with an underlying heavy chain deposition disease. Direct immunofluorescence testing of lesional skin demonstrated immunoglobulin G deposition on elastic fibers, suggesting that in some cases, cutis laxa may have an immune-mediated etiopathogenesis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cutis Laxa / etiology*
  • Cutis Laxa / immunology
  • Cutis Laxa / pathology
  • Elastic Tissue / pathology
  • Female
  • Heavy Chain Disease / complications*
  • Heavy Chain Disease / immunology
  • Heavy Chain Disease / pathology
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin G / metabolism*
  • Skin / metabolism*
  • Skin / pathology

Substances

  • Immunoglobulin G